Several inland camping options exist near Sebastian, Florida, approximately 25 miles north of Fort Pierce along the central east coast. The area features a mix of coastal and inland waterway environments with camping access to Blue Cypress Lake and the North Fork of the St. Lucie River. Winter temperatures typically range from 50-75°F, making it a popular destination during colder months.
What to do
Rocket launch viewing: Park at a campsite with a good eastern view to witness rocket launches from nearby Cape Canaveral. "We called Vero Beach Camp the morning of our stay and they welcomed our reservation for 1 night. Beautiful shaded campground, nice swimming pool, clean and quiet. We will definitely come back. The rocket launch was scrubbed so we will try again!" shares a visitor to Vero Beach Kamp.
Fishing opportunities: Access multiple fishing spots from Sebastian-area campgrounds, with options for both freshwater and saltwater species. "We stayed on a waterfront site at River Ranch RV Resort and it was perfect! We were able to fish right off the dock at our site, there was a fit pit and grill, as well as seating outside," notes a camper at River Ranch RV Resort.
Wildlife observation: Explore trails through prairie landscapes to spot native Florida wildlife. "We've seen wild turkeys, deer, and even heard wild boars at night going through the campground," writes a visitor to Kilpatrick Hammock Campground. "The air was so clean that we felt like we were on oxygen! The night sky was absolutely breathtaking."
Airboat experiences: Book an airboat tour from campgrounds near Sebastian to explore wetland ecosystems. "We did the air boat ride and it was a fun experience," mentions a camper who stayed at Westgate River Ranch Resort. "The resort has many amenities for the family including air-boat rides and a fun area for kids with zip lines and other activities."
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Several camping areas near Sebastian offer excellent night sky viewing away from city lights. "This is one of the most comfortable and well-kept campgrounds I've found in FL. The night sky was absolutely breathtaking, but catching dawn and dusk over the landscape is really nice too," notes a visitor to Kilpatrick Hammock Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Sebastian-area campgrounds. "The campground is probably the cleanest we had stayed in yet! Most spots are shaded," shares a guest at Road Runner Travel Resort in nearby Fort Pierce.
Spacious sites: Unlike more crowded coastal alternatives, campgrounds near Sebastian typically offer roomier accommodations. "The property is clean with paved roads and super large lots that you just don't find anymore," writes a Road Runner Travel Resort camper. "Great facilities including a pool, tennis courts, shuffle board, a chip and put golf course, a store, and more!"
Waterfront options: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for fishing or relaxation. "We stayed in one of the electrical sights along the river. We made use of the fire pit and enjoyed the sunset," shares a camper at Phipps Park Campground. "We truly enjoyed our peaceful visit to the park and highly recommend staying along the water."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Glamping and premium sites near Sebastian book quickly during winter months. "They book for next winter beginning in March every year," advises a camper at Road Runner Travel Resort. "Many full timers."
Distance to stores: Many campgrounds are remote with limited nearby services. "Please note that this campground is very far from the closest stores. You can buy firewood from the camp office but it is definitely worth the drive," cautions a visitor to Kilpatrick Hammock.
Alternative glamping options: For those seeking glamping near Sebastian, Florida without the resort experience, platform tent camping offers a more rustic approach. "We brought our queen sized airmatress and it fits with plenty of space for changing clothes inside the adorable platform canvas tent home," shares a visitor to Phipps Park Campground.
Mosquito preparation: Bring plenty of insect repellent, especially during warmer months or when camping near water. "There is alot to do here, stayed at site 347. It's costly but it worth it. Have to watch out for the mosquitoes so bring a lot of bug spray," advises a camper at River Ranch RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Best pool options: Select campgrounds with well-maintained swimming facilities for children. "The full time residents are very friendly as are the staff. The pool is clean and they have all types of camping available," notes a visitor to Vero Beach Kamp about their facilities.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds offering organized recreation. "On Saturday they have a rodeo. There is a bar and restaurant on the property. Lots of trees and shade throughout," shares a visitor to Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo. "Group of friends and family decided to stay on this gem, I was pleasantly surprised! Clean bathrooms and showers. Lots of amenities for kids like mini golf, zip lining and mechanical bull riding."
Beach proximity: Consider camping locations with access to nearby beaches for day trips. "There is a really nice beach for kids 15 mins away on Hutchinson island," suggests a camper at Road Runner Travel Resort. "We were almost the only ones in the pool during the week."
Transportation needs: Many larger campgrounds require additional transportation for getting around the property. "Bring your bikes as everything is a bit of a walk from the campground," recommends a Westgate River Ranch visitor. Another adds, "You need a golf cart or bikes to get around."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on shade availability and privacy needs. "There are no tents allowed here. They have tents that are already set up on platforms," notes a visitor to Phipps Park, highlighting the importance of understanding accommodation types before booking.
Hookup considerations: Verify exactly what utilities are available at your preferred glamping site near Sebastian. "The sites were large however had a lot of ruts. The grounds were not very well manicured although there were people working to try to freshen up the place," shares an RVer at Joy RV Park.
Seasonal crowd differences: Plan for varying occupancy levels depending on time of year. "Joy is a nice campground, clean, quiet, saw 2 nasa launches from our site. No frills, but a decent place. Staff was very nice," reports an RVer who stayed at site 189.
Road conditions: Be prepared for varying access road quality to more remote locations. "Expect a long travel to this remote site. It's a couple miles of reasonably decent dirt roads to get there, after several miles of remote highways," cautions a visitor to Kilpatrick Hammock Campground.
